Pernicious anemia

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Pernicious anemia is a disease where not enough red blood cells are produced due to a deficiency of vitamin B12. Those affected often have a gradual onset. The most common initial symptoms are feeling tired and weak. Other symptoms may include rapid breathing, feeling faint, mouth ulcers, sore tongue, pale skin, chest pain, loss of appetite, upset stomach, numbness in hands and feet, difficulty walking, muscle weakness, blurred vision, slow thinking, memory loss, clumsiness, depression, and confusion. Without treatment, some of these problems may become permanent. Pernicious anemia refers to a type of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia that results from lack of intrinsic factor. Lack of intrinsic factor is most commonly due to an autoimmune attack on the cells that create it in the stomach. It can also occur following the surgical removal of all or part of the stomach or small intestine; from an inherited disorder or illnesses that damage the stomach lining. When suspected, diagnosis is made...

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